Frequently Asked Questions

Ages 11–18 (middle school and high school students).

In Downingtown, PA, organized through the Downingtown Area Recreation Consortium.

No. Non-residents are welcome at a slightly different rate ($320 vs $300 for LaunchPad; $520 vs $500 for HPR Lab).

Yes. Model rocketry has a better safety record than most outdoor sports. All programs follow the NAR Safety Code, and safety glasses are provided. Rockets use commercially manufactured, certified engines.

All instruction follows the National Association of Rocketry Safety Code. Safety glasses are provided. Launches follow established safety protocols including safe distance requirements, countdown procedures, and launch controller safety interlocks.

LaunchPad is for beginners with no prior experience — students build and launch model rockets. HPR Lab is for students with prior experience who want to build high-powered rockets and prepare for NAR Level 1 certification.

For LaunchPad Rocketry Camp: No. For HPR Lab: Yes — students must have completed LaunchPad Camp, earned a Civil Air Patrol Basic Rocketry Badge, or demonstrate equivalent experience.

Just a notebook and pen/pencil for design notes, and clothing suitable for hands-on building. All rocket kits, engines, construction supplies, and safety glasses are provided.

Students keep the rockets they build and launch.

Registration is through the Downingtown Area Recreation Consortium. Click "Register Now" to be directed to their registration page.

Please contact the Downingtown Area Recreation Consortium at (610) 269-9260 or downingtownrec@gmail.com for cancellation and refund policies.

Weather contingency plans will be communicated to registered participants.